The Future of Consumerist

Over the last twelve years, Consumerist has been a steadfast proponent and voice on behalf of consumers, from exposing shady practices by secretive cable companies to pushing for action against dodgy payday lenders. Now, we’re joining forces with Consumer Reports, our parent organization, to cultivate the next generation of consumer advocacy.

Stay tuned as Consumerist’s current and future content finds its home as a part of the Consumer Reports brand. In the meantime, you can access existing Consumerist content below, and we encourage you to visit Consumer Reports to read the latest consumer news.

Warm weather is coming and now is the time to think about saving energy before it’s so freaking hot that you just don’t care anymore. Here are some quick tips for cooling your home without spending any more money than is necessary:

• Put window air conditioners on the north side of the building. According to the Department of Energy, “A unit operating in the shade uses as much as 10% less electricity than the same one operating in the sun.”

• Setting your thermostat to a colder temperature doesn’t make the house cool down faster, silly.

• Set your thermostat as high as you can stand it. This is probably 2 or 3 degrees higher than you think it is.

• Listen to your Dad. Keep the doors and windows shut tight. “What, are we air-conditioning the entire state of Illinois in here?”

• Lower the shades to prevent “solar gain.”

• Interior fans keep the air moving and the electric bill low.

• Don’t forget about a cross breeze! Open windows on each side of the house and enjoy the fresh air.